Hertab 250 mg contains lapatinib, a targeted therapy used primarily in the treatment of certain types of breast cancer. It is an oral medication classified as a tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Hertab is typically used in patients whose cancer cells test positive for HER2, a protein that promotes the growth of cancer cells. By blocking this protein, lapatinib helps slow down or stop the progression of the disease. It is often given in combination with other cancer medications for improved effectiveness.

Mechanism of Action

Lapatinib works by selectively inhibiting the activity of two receptors on the surface of cancer cells:

• HER2 or ErbB2

• EGFR or ErbB1

These receptors are responsible for sending growth signals inside the cell. In HER2-positive breast cancer, these signals are overly active, leading to rapid cancer growth. By blocking these pathways, lapatinib reduces cell division and causes cancer cells to die. This dual inhibition approach can be more effective in slowing tumor growth and may help in overcoming resistance to other treatments like trastuzumab.

Uses

Hertab is mainly used to treat:

• HER2-positive breast cancer, especially in cases where the disease is advanced or has spread (metastatic)

• It is commonly prescribed in combination with capecitabine, especially for patients who have already received other HER2-targeted therapies or chemotherapy

Your oncologist may also consider this medicine if the cancer no longer responds to initial treatments.

Adverse Effects

Common Side Effects

• Diarrhoea, sometimes severe

• Nausea and vomiting

• Tiredness or fatigue

• Rash, often appearing as acne-like eruptions

• Loss of appetite

• Hand-foot syndrome when used with capecitabine